Even though I can’t even commit to a set number of races on this list, this next city on our list is so committed to its natural aesthetic that they have building codes that require all building and house colors to match the surrounding landscape. The Sedona, Arizona Half Marathon is a bucket-list-worthy race. I’ve heard about the ATV and the SUV tours up through the hills and red rocks, but why look at everything from a vehicle when you could run right through it? Sedona is also a great spot because of all the natural healing resources it provides. The legendary vortexes throughout Sedona bring visitors from all over the world to search for these swirled pockets of energy. Meditation and/or calming activities performed at these sites are said to be especially effective and sometimes transformative. And even if the spiritual side of things isn’t for you, there are plenty of yoga groups that make for a great way to cool down and take in the views!

If a healthy dose of Northeast hustle and bustle is more your speed then Lady Liberty has the race for you! The biggest of the big three Northeastern rival cities is none other than the Big Apple. The New York Marathon route will take you through all five of the boroughs and let you cross the finish line in the iconic Central Park. New York’s Marathon might just be the flashiest. It has grown to be the largest marathon in the world and in addition to the millions of live spectators, the marathon usually streams online, and has attracted national TV broadcasts. NYC also ensures that the runners who make the trip have a week full of events to stoke even more excitement such as the open Marathon Pavilion, the 3-day Expo, and the various RunCenter events. A November race in the northeastern part of the country means an absolute lottery draw when it comes to the weather, so maybe it’s time to look back at the West Coast.

While Big Sur might be the household name for marathon runners in California, there’s no area in the country more synonymous with wine than Napa Valley. If NYC is a little too much and Sedona is a little too spiritual, Napa Valley might be the race for you. A much smaller marathon than the larger cities, Napa boasts one of the best victory prizes for those of us who drink. Both the men’s and women’s victors win an etched magnum of wine. The smaller nature of the race also allows for a more intimate and personal feel. There is typically a pasta dinner hosted the night before and buses will take you right to the starting line where they also have a gear check so that all of your extra gear can be waiting for you at the finish line.

For those of us who would rather cool down with a nice Old Fashioned rather than pop the cork on a bottle of wine, a trip down to Kentucky might move up the list passed Napa Valley. The Bluegrass Half Marathon is the perfect weekend trip for Derby fans and bourbon aficionados alike! In addition to some of the prettiest countryside views you could ask for, this race offers a number of tours and experiences to round out your race weekend. This year, they are offering multiple distillery tours and true Kentucky bourbon tastings, a custom craft cocktail class, and a tour of Churchill Downs and the surrounding city! If you like to pamper yourself on a Runcation, Bluegrass also offers a VIP race package that includes, breakfast and brunch, all-you-can-drink beer, and massage tables.